Tree Policy

When Garden Wood estate was built, the developers and the Residents Co planted many new trees to supplement the existing ones. These have now matured and the estate is well endowed with trees large and small. There are no plans to plant any more but requests from residents for new trees will be considered.

The company may decide to replace trees that have we have had to remove. Much will depend on the location and financial constraints. Generally we will not replace trees on very small plots. Some of the small plots that we maintain are actually owned by WSCC. These plots are normally between the road and the footpath. We will not replace any trees lost on these plots.

The Company appreciates the importance of trees on our environment and supports the ethos of the Woodland Trust. We are committed to maintain existing trees, ensuring that the estate remains a "Garden Wood". Many of these trees are now quite large and the maintenance costs are increasing. It would be possible to spend significant amounts on tree maintenance but the directors try to keep maintenance charges low so an annual budget is allocated for tree work.


The company cuts back and prunes trees within its budgetary constraints but does not remove trees unless they are dead or if there is a safety issue. Occasionally residents request a tree to be removed. Such requests will be considered but are unlikely to be granted unless there is a clear safety issue.

The company has a duty of care so we occasionally have to remove trees for health and safety reasons. If the company has no option but to remove a tree then we do not generally consult or advise local residents. If there is an option then we will try to contact residents living close to the area of the tree.

We comply with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. We do our best to avoid disturbing wild birds or their nests during the breeding season.

Where a resident requests/insists that the company removes a tree because they believe it is causing or may cause damage to their property, the company reserves the right to ask the resident to produce a report from a professional to confirm that this is the case. The cost of obtaining this report shall be borne by the resident.

It is recognized that removing a tree can aggravate structural damage through heave or root shrinkage. If the company does remove a tree at a resident’s request then the company will not accept responsibility for any subsequent damage.

Please contact us if you have any questions about trees on our land.